The Best Capsule Coffee Machines of 2017
If you're a lover of Nespresso but want to step away from their tiny capsules look no further than this machine. It works with larger Vertuo capsules, analyzing the barcode and automatically adjusting settings to suit your desired drink size.
It has espresso and ristretto options as well as an option to save drinks you've made. It also has a adjustable drip tray with a height adjustment and sleep mode that is energy-efficient.
1. Nespresso Vertuo Plus
The Nespresso Vertuo Plus is one of two new machines to join the Nespresso range in 2017. It is narrower than the other models and can fit into smaller spaces. It's also available in a variety of colors, too.
The machine uses the latest version of Nespresso's pod-based system. Instead of piercing the capsule to pump hot water through it the Vertuo Plus uses Centrifusion to spin the capsule around at up to 7000rpm. The brew is made by mixing ground coffee and water. The capsule drips from the 18 smaller holes and into the central hole which gives your drink a more dense crema. The machine can make both espresso and lungo-style drinks.
It reads a barcode on the bottom of each capsule to adjust its blending process to suit each. You aren't able to mix capsules from other brands with Vertuo plus, as only Nespresso capsules are barcode-encoded.
There's just one button to press on the top of the machine and it's a breeze to use. Click the silver lever on the front to raise it up and reveal the space to place your pod. Place the pod in place and then press the single button for brewing.
The machine comes with an ounce reservoir of water that is 40 ounces and it is able to automatically release the used capsules internally. It also has a heating up time of about 15 seconds, and an energy-saving auto shut off after nine minutes of inactivity. It's a stylish, reliable and easy-to-use machine with minimal maintenance. If you want to reduce the amount of waste from this kind of system, make sure to set up an effective recycling plan for the pods you have used.
2. Lavazza Vertuo Pop
This compact machine from Lavazza is an eye-catching addition to your coffee area. The innovative Centrifusion Technology scans the barcode of your chosen capsule to give you the precise amount of water needed for your perfect cup. It's available in a range of colors and comes in up five different sizes of hot or iced drinks including gran lungo and double espresso.
This machine is slightly more sophisticated than Nespresso machines, as it can heat and serve milk. It's still more reliable than a regular espresso machine and is a great option for those who aren't confident using a manual coffeemaker. The Jolie features a large chrome lever which opens and shuts the capsule slot, while the 0.9-litre water tank is positioned behind it. The large capsule bin can hold up to ten capsules.
It's easy to use, and heats up within minutes. It's also quiet and uses only a small amount of energy, which means you'll save money on your electric bill.
The only downside to this model is that it only works with Lavazza's capsules, instead of the wide range of Nespresso pods. This might not be an issue for the majority of people but it could be an issue for those who like switching brands. If you do choose to purchase this machine, be sure you purchase a set of 100 capsules that can be reused with the purchase. These capsules are not expensive, but they can save you money in the long run as they are less expensive than Nespresso pods.
3. Tassimo My Way
Fully automatic machine that has an extremely simple operation. It features a large platform that can be adjusted to different heights for tall glasses or smaller espresso cups. The numbered buttons make it easy to choose the settings you want. You can also save four different variations of your own making it a great option for couples and families with different tastes. The machine is energy-efficient and has an indicator that lets you know when the tank is full or descaling is needed (which requires the use of a service disc, which is tucked into a slot along with the instructions).
Like all Tassimo system machines it's designed to work with the company's branded, barcoded T-Discs that contain everything from coffee, tea and hot chocolate to cold drinks and creamy milk. It has Intellibrew technology, which automatically recognises the kind of drink and adjusts the brewing time, temperature and strength according to the type of drink. This stops you from making a mistake by adjusting unnatural settings, like altering the strength of a coffee made with milk, and ensures that your drink tasting consistent.
The My Way 2 has an extensive selection of flavors to choose from, including more than 50 well-known brands including Costa favorite brands, Kenco, L'OR and Cadbury's. You can make lattes, cappuccinos and even frothy Americanos.
It is easy to clean and has a standby mode that saves energy. The water tank can be easily removed and filled with fresh water. Unlike some pod machines, it does not have an integrated mechanism to dispose of used T discs, however it has formed a partnership with Podback to allow you to recycle them in a local program.
4. Jolie
Jolie is a tiny pod coffee machine that has been on the market since a few years. It has a lot of advantages against the latest models. Its slimline design occupies less counter space than larger machines, and its controls are easy to use. With the push of one button, you can choose between lungo and espresso. A cup holder that is removable allows you to use standard cups, or even mugs.
It's not expensive however the Jolie is a great choice for those looking for an easy capsule coffee maker that makes excellent espresso with minimum effort. The Jolie also includes an easy steam wand that allows you to add milk to make a cappuccino. It's also one of the quietest that we've tested, which means it won't disturb family sleep-ins in the early morning.
SMEG is well-known for its chic kitchen appliances and this retro-styled coffee pod maker is no different (choose between cream, black or red). It's compact enough to fit between other appliances on your counter but doesn't compromise on features. One press of a button will make a short espresso or longer lungo, and its energy saving mode is put into standby after two minutes of inactivity and seven days of no use.
The Jolie is a great choice for those who like the 1950s design aesthetic of SMEG or you want to personalize your coffee to be better than the major brands offer. It comes with a Bloom & Brew feature that pre-wettes the capsule before it makes it more flavorful cup. Other settings allow you to regulate the amount of water used and also adjust the temperature of the coffee and alter the pressure.
5. Infinissima
The Infinissima is the ideal machine for those who want quick morning espresso or an espresso that will help fuel their day. It's a sleek, automatic capsule machine that's simple to use and provides an array of beverages. It has a unique design inspired by the infinity symbol and includes an oblong pod holder and triangular water tank that looks like modern art.
The Infinissima has a distinctive exterior however it doesn't compromise on quality. It uses a high pressure system to extract maximum flavor from each capsule of coffee, and also produces professional-quality crema in the cafe style. It's got a quick heating process, so you can have your drinks ready in just a few minutes. It also has a large, removable 1.2L water tank, which means you can make multiple cups before you need to refill.
Another excellent feature is Infinissima's capacity to brew hot and cold drinks. The adjustable temperature settings allow you to choose from a variety of beverages such as iced coffee and latte macarchiato. It also has a cup warming plate to keep your drink warm and keep it from cooling too fast. The Infinissima also comes with a timer function that shuts off capsule coffee machine the machine after a certain time of inactivity, which helps to improve energy efficiency.
The Infinissima is easy to use, with simple controls and a clear LCD which lets you select your beverage options. It also comes with self-rising pod holders, which makes it easy to put the capsules in and fill the tank with water. It also comes with a convenient filter and cleaning kit that allows you to reuse used capsules. Infinissima capsule coffee machines are an excellent choice to consider if you're looking for a reliable machine in Qatar.